Amphibious Navy and Marine forces based in San Diego County are conducting a major training exercise this week with India, one of America’s most important partners in the Indo-Pacific.
The Navy released photos Tuesday of the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset sailing with Indian vessels in the Indian Ocean as part of Tiger TRIUMPH, a drill that focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The exercise also is meant to improve the ability of the two countries to work together to deal with potential threats from China.
The Somerset is carrying elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit from Camp Pendleton. The MEU typically deploys with about 2,200 personnel.
The destroyer USS Halsey, another San Diego-based warship, also is participating in the exercise.
Other local Navy and Marine forces are preparing to leave for the Philippines to participate in Balikatan, an annual series of war games that will be held in April and May in conjunction with Philippine forces. France also will participate this year.
